United States Central Command (CENTCOM) Overview

Introduction

This document serves as a comprehensive overview of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), one of the Unified Combatant Commands of the United States. It includes essential information about the command’s mission, area of responsibility, strategic priorities, and key leadership. Additionally, it provides links to important documents, news articles, and other resources that paint a full picture of the command’s role in US and global defense efforts.

Mission Statement

“The mission of CENTCOM is to promote cooperation among nations, respond to crises, and deter or defeat state and non-state aggression, and support development and reconstruction to establish the conditions for regional security, stability, and prosperity.”

Area of Responsibility

• Geographic Scope: CENTCOM’s area of responsibility includes countries in the Middle East, parts of Asia, and Northeast Africa.
• Countries/Regions Included: CENTCOM’s AOR covers 21 countries, including key strategic regions such as the Persian Gulf, parts of the Indian Ocean, and various chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal.

Strategic Importance

• CENTCOM’s strategic importance is underscored by its oversight of a region that is a critical hub for global trade, energy resources, and security.
• The command plays a vital role in counter-terrorism, including the ongoing fight against ISIS and other extremist organizations, as well as in countering the influence of regional adversaries like Iran.

Command Structure

• Headquarters: MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida.
• Key Components: CENTCOM encompasses Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Special Operations components.
• Leadership:
  • Commander: General Michael E. Kurilla
  • Deputy Commander: Vice Admiral Brad Cooper
  • Chief of Staff: Major General Brandon R. Tegtmeier
  • Senior Enlisted Leader: Fleet Master Chief Derrick “Wally” Walters

Source Documents and Resources

• Posture Statements: Link
• Strategic Vision Documents: N/A
• Press Releases: Link
• News Articles: Link
• History Page: Link
• Leadership Bios: Commander, Deputy Commander, Chief of Staff, Senior Enlisted Leader

Key Facts and Figures

• CENTCOM’s area of responsibility encompasses about 4 million square miles.
• The command has been engaged in major military operations including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the fight against ISIS.

Additional Resources

• Official Website: URL
• Social Media Links: Twitter, Facebook, YouTube
• Contact Information: Public Affairs Office can be reached for further inquiries or engagement with the command.

Conclusion

CENTCOM plays a pivotal role in ensuring the security and stability of a region critically important to U.S. interests. With a mission that spans across conflict prevention, crisis response, and partnership building, CENTCOM is at the forefront of protecting American interests and upholding international security standards.

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Note: This document is intended to serve as an informative resource and may be updated periodically to reflect changes in CENTCOM’s strategic direction, leadership, or operational focus. Always refer to the official website or directly contact the command for the most current information.